Canon's Farm and Banstead Woods

From Londonbirders

These two sites form a large single area of arable farmland and ancient deciduous woodland. Parking for the farm is best along Canon's Lane (at the western end) off of the A217 at approx TQ245579. It is best to park in Ballard's Green, a cul-de-sac off of this road. A purpose built car park exists for the wood at TQ273583. Both sites are well served with public footpaths.

Canon's Farm has been virtually unwatched. In November 2005 a lone observer, looking to take on a patch within walking distance of his home, visited the site three times and was rewarded with plenty of interest, the following seemingly wintering, feeding and/or roosting in the area: up to 70 Lapwing, 38 Skylarks, 115 Meadow Pipits and 37 Yellowhammers (all peak counts). Single Brambling, Crossbill and, best of all, an immature female Goshawk were also seen. The fields are a mixture of ploughed and unharvested crop with rank grassy areas. Hedgerow is plentiful. There are plenty of 'stand-alone' mature trees and small copses. The only water on site is a small pond on the western side of the A217. This farm has potential.

Banstead Wood is a large area of ancient deciduous woodland that still holds breeding Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Marsh Tit. There has been limited observer coverage but in recent years Golden Oriole, Firecrest, Wood Warbler and Hawfinch have been seen. A couple of very small ponds exist.